Robert William (Bobby) Clay, hailing from a lineage of industrious individuals in Morgan County, Indiana, embodies the spirit of a true entrepreneur. His childhood memories range from farming with his uncle to trapping in the woods near his grandpa's wood mill, all while sporting the iconic FFA blue and gold corduroy.
Bobby's journey to Oklahoma began when his friend's family moved to Lincoln County, providing him with an early taste of the Sooner State. Before settling in Oklahoma, he honed his skills through diverse experiences - working at the Morgantown CO-OP, raising feeder pigs, joining Masonic Lodge #545, long-haul trucking, participating in rodeo associations, and establishing his cattle herd.
Meet Bobby Clay
In 1998, Bobby, along with his commercial herd and family, made the pivotal move to Oklahoma, setting up Clay Ranch on 80 acres in Perkins. The path to full-time ranch ownership wasn't straightforward, leading him through roles at Kinder Dozer and Kalka Construction before venturing into business ownership with Clay Excavating and Clay Ranch Trucking.
Bobby is not just a rancher; he's a behind-the-scenes force, occasionally stepping into the spotlight for youth organizations and community causes. From presiding over the Indiana Junior Rodeo Association to advising the Payne County Junior Cattlemen, his commitment to nurturing the next generation shines through.
Clay Ranch, since its inception, has evolved into a prominent cow/calf operation and embryo recipient program, showcasing predominantly Angus-based cows. Partnerships with Matador Ranches in 2013 and TransOva in 2017 brought innovative strides to Payne County, introducing Akaushi calves and top-shelf practices.
Exemplary genetics and unparalleled cattle care define the calves you find on Clay Ranch today. Services include housing donors, donor transport, AI, a weaned calf program, embryo transfers, and bull feed out. Beyond business success, Bobby and Christine Clay prioritize family, creating a welcoming environment for customers and their own kin.
Family is the cornerstone of Clay Ranch, where each member plays a vital role. From management and client services to accounting, calving, IT, marketing, day work, and beyond, the Clay family, with its multi-hat juggling act, exemplifies the secret sauce to a truly successful ranching brand. The next generation, watching from the shadows, learns that prioritizing family is the key to building a lasting legacy.